A weekend in Eastern Sicily between Etna, sea ​​and fishing villages

If you are planning a weekend in eastern Sicily, there is an itinerary capable of encompassing the best of this extraordinary territory: the grandeur of Etna, the charm of the Ionian sea, the picturesque seaside villages and the authenticity of Sicilian traditions. Staying at Villa Maria, in the heart of Giarre, you can reach some of the most beautiful destinations in Sicily in just a few minutes, living an experience full of emotions without having to travel long distances.

Discover our suggestion for a itinerary between Etna and the sea to experience in two days.

First day: discovering Etna

The day begins with a breakfast in the garden of Villa Maria, among citrus scents, local products and desserts prepared with local ingredients. From here, in less than 40 minutes by car, you reach the slopes of Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Morning: excursion to Etna

You can choose between different experiences:

• walks along the extinct craters;
• guided treks;
• off-road excursions;
• climb to the summit craters with authorized guides.

Lunar landscapes, the lava flows and the views of the sea make this experience unique in every season.

Lunch among the flavors of Etna

The slopes of the volcano are home to numerous farms and cellars where you can taste:

• Etna DOC wines;
• local cured meats and cheeses;
• miele;
• mushrooms;
• pistachios;
• extra virgin olive oil.

A perfect opportunity to learn about the food and wine of the area.

Afternoon: the Etna villages

Before returning you can visit some of the characteristic villages on the slopes of the volcano such as:

• Milo;
• Zafferana Etnea;
• St. Alphi, with the famous Chestnut of the Hundred Horses.

Small squares, he asked, panoramas and artisan workshops tell the most authentic soul of Etna.

Second day: sea ​​and fishing villages

After a relaxing night at Villa Maria it's time to discover the Ionian coast.

Riposto and the Port of Etna

A few minutes from the property is Riposto with its tourist port, the seafront and the characteristic fish market. A walk among the boats, the historic center and Piazza San Pietro allow you to breathe the authentic maritime atmosphere of the city.

Archirafi Tower

Continuing south you reach Torre Archirafi, one of the most evocative villages on the Ionian coast. Here time seems to slow down: the seafront, the lava rocks, the small rooms overlooking the sea and the view of Etna offer unforgettable views. It is the ideal place for a break, an aperitif or simply to admire the sea.

Marina di Cottone

If you want to spend a few hours on the beach, Marina di Cottone offers a long stretch of pebbles. A perfect destination even during the cooler months for walking along the coast.

Dinner with sea view

End the weekend by choosing one of the many restaurants on the coast to enjoy:

• fresh fish;
• seafood pasta;
• red shrimp;
• typical Sicilian sweets.

All accompanied by a glass of Etna wine.

Why choose Villa Maria

Villa Maria represents the ideal starting point for a holiday in Giarre. Thanks to its strategic position it is easy to reach:

• Etna;
• Taormina;
• Catania;
• Riposto;
• Archirafi Tower;
• Acireale;
• the beaches of the Ionian coast.

After a day spent hiking and visiting, guests can relax in the saltwater pool, stroll in the Mediterranean garden or enjoy the silence of a historic nineteenth-century residence, restored keeping its original charm intact. Villa Maria awaits you to discover the most authentic face of Sicily.